Do Photons Experience Changes in Potential Fields?

In summary, photons are not affected by electric fields due to their lack of charge. However, they can respond to gravitational potential differences, resulting in a change in energy and a red or blue shift. The mathematics behind this phenomenon can be explained through the equations for gravitational redshift and blueshift.
  • #1
DeG
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Are photons effected by traveling through electric or gravitational potential differences? If so, how so?
 
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  • #2
DeG said:
Are photons effected by traveling through electric or gravitational potential differences? If so, how so?

Photon is not charged. So it is not affected by the electric field.

Photon has energy, so does responds to gravitation potential different. It can gain/loss energy and therefore red/blue shift.
 
  • #3
Does the electric field component of em waves not interact with electric fields and likewise with the magnetic component? Also, could I get the mathematics behind the blue and/ or red shift of light do to gravitation?
 

1. What are photons in potential fields?

Photons in potential fields refer to the behavior of photons, which are particles of light, when they interact with an electric or magnetic field. This interaction causes the photons to change direction and energy, resulting in a phenomenon known as potential scattering.

2. How do potential fields affect the behavior of photons?

Potential fields can either attract or repel photons, depending on their charge and the direction of the field. This interaction causes the photons to change direction and energy, which can be observed in experiments such as the photoelectric effect.

3. What is the significance of studying photons in potential fields?

Studying photons in potential fields is crucial for understanding the behavior of light and its interaction with matter. It has applications in various fields such as optics, quantum mechanics, and material science.

4. How are potential fields created?

Potential fields can be created by applying an electric or magnetic field to a certain area or by using specialized equipment such as particle accelerators. In nature, potential fields can also occur due to the presence of charged particles or magnetic materials.

5. What are some examples of potential fields in everyday life?

Some examples of potential fields in everyday life include the magnetic field of a refrigerator magnet, the electric field created by a battery, and the gravitational field of the Earth. Potential fields can also be found in electronic devices such as TVs, computers, and cell phones.

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